U.S. Government Greenlights Several AI Services

Electric Car or Plug-in Hybrid – Expert Advice

Updated: August 5, 2025, 11:01 AM

Published: July 22, 2025, 09:45 AM

Electric cars have rapidly improved, and many can now handle all their driving needs with electric power, without compromising on space or comfort.

However, there are situations where a modern plug-in hybrid might be a better choice.

Magnus Lord Arenander, Product Manager at BMW Sweden, shares his advice for those struggling to decide.

The development of electric cars has accelerated in recent years, often described as a revolution in the automotive world. Cars now offer longer ranges and faster charging technology. A well-developed charging infrastructure has also been crucial for the transition to locally emission-free mobility.

“We now have a good charging network. The combination of better range, charging infrastructure, and car software that optimizes the journey means that most people can now drive even longer distances with an electric car without having to adapt or worry about reaching their destination,” says Magnus Lord Arenander.

Not Just Range

But the progress isn’t just about range and charging. It also includes new smart features and architecture that enable better driving experiences and larger interior spaces. Some models now offer the same cargo and passenger space regardless of the powertrain.

BMW is a leader in this area, with the BMW i5 xDrive40 Touring, an electric premium wagon with all-wheel drive, being a prime example. This model has an electric range of up to 561 kilometers and can be fast-charged at up to 205 kW.

In the latest generation of the 5 Series, all electric versions (BEV & PHEV) have the battery pack integrated into the floor. This means – in addition to a centered weight for good handling – that the batteries do not encroach on the space for luggage or passengers. The BMW i5 xDrive40 Touring has a cargo capacity of 570 liters with the split rear seat up, a figure that applies to all versions of the 5 Series Touring.

Plug-in Hybrid

Alongside the rise of electric cars, plug-in hybrids have also evolved. They combine combustion engines with electric power, providing flexibility for longer trips.

“There are different scenarios where a plug-in hybrid may be a more logical alternative than a fully electric car. For example, you may often drive long distances in areas where the charging infrastructure is not yet fully developed, or you may have a vacation home where you cannot charge safely. In that case, it is reassuring to have a combustion engine while knowing that you can handle your daily driving on electric power,” says Magnus Lord Arenander.

Up to 98 Kilometers on a Single Charge

Three examples of how far the development has come are the three plug-in hybrid wagon versions in BMW’s 5 Series: the BMW 530e Touring, BMW 530e xDrive Touring, and 550e xDrive Touring. The first two have a system output of 299 hp and combine a modern turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric motor of 184 hp. Thanks to a battery with a net capacity of 19.4 kWh, an electric range of up to 98 kilometers is stated with rear-wheel drive and 92 kilometers with all-wheel drive.

The BMW 550e xDrive Touring combines a straight 6-cylinder engine of 313 hp with an electric motor of 197 hp. The system output of 489 hp and 700 Nm allows the sprint from 0–100 km/h to be completed in 4.4 seconds, while the car has an electric range of up to 91 km.

For those who want to combine plug-in hybrid with maximum practicality and performance, there is something truly special: the BMW M5 Touring, which with its 727 horsepower is one of the most powerful cars on the market.

Technology and Driving Pleasure

BMW has been careful to ensure that whether you choose an electric car or a plug-in hybrid, you should have access to the best possible driver support behind the wheel.

This includes the latest version of the BMW infotainment system iDrive OS8.5, which in combination with the BMW Curved Display gives the driver easy access to all the car’s functions through two screens of 12.3 and 14.9 inches respectively. The system can be voice-controlled, making it even more user-friendly.

There is also Adaptive Suspension Professional (standard on i5 xDrive40 Touring, i5 M60 xDrive Touring and 550e xDrive Touring), which means active shock absorbers that adapt the car to driving style and driver preferences, as well as rear-wheel steering which makes the car both smoother and more fun to drive. Other examples are BMW Live Cockpit Plus with BMW Curved Display, semi-electric sports seats, two-zone climate control and camera- and radar-based driver assistance systems as standard equipment.

FACTS: BMW i5 Touring

BMW has carefully selected the most popular options and packaged them into favorable Edition models in 4 different levels. This results in low benefit values for the company car driver.

Standard equipment includes: BMW live cockpit plus with BMW curved display, BMW operating system 8.5 with navigation, Harman Kardon surround sound system, sports seats for driver and front passenger, electric lumbar support for driver and front passenger, automatic climate control with 2-zone control and compartment for wireless charging.
Active edition, which is the base level, includes an electric towbar and cars ordered from May 5th include Driving Assistant Plus, which includes adaptive cruise control.
You can choose M Sport Active Edition (where Driving Assistant Plus is now also included), Innovation Edition – read more here about what is included in the various Edition packages and find which one suits your needs.

FACTS: 530e xDrive Touring

BMW has carefully selected the most popular options and packaged them into favorable Edition models in 3 different levels. This results in low benefit values for the company car driver.

Standard equipment includes: BMW live cockpit plus with BMW curved display, BMW operating system 8.5 with navigation, Harman Kardon surround sound system, sports seats for driver and front passenger, electric lumbar support for driver and front passenger, automatic climate control with 2-zone control and compartment for wireless charging.
Active edition, which is the base level, includes an electric towbar and cars ordered from May 5th include Driving Assistant Plus, which includes adaptive cruise control.
You can choose M Sport Active Edition (where Driving Assistant Plus is now also included), M Sport Business Edition – read more here about what is included in the various Edition packages and find which one suits your needs.

This article was produced by a commercial partner in collaboration with BMW.

Enjoyed this post by Thibault Helle? Subscribe for more insights and updates straight from the source.